Brisbane City Council has today officially opened the city’s first ever river hub in West End, which will soon form part of a world-class River Access Network that will create new river tourism and transport opportunities in the inner-city.

Deputy Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Brisbane’s tourism industry had been stifled by a lack of on-water infrastructure, however, the opening of the West End River Hub would mark the start of a new era in lifestyle and leisure opportunities.

“Brisbane is Australia’s River City and the city’s residents and eight million annual visitors will now be able to see and do more along the water’s edge, with the first of many river hubs opening today in West End,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Until now, there has been no inner-city access for people to kayak, canoe, jet ski or stand-up paddle board, limiting opportunities for the city’s $6.3 billion tourism industry to grow.

“The 25-metre long pontoon along Riverside Drive will be able to accommodate up to 10 vessels at a time, and could soon become a drop off and pick up point for a new water taxi service once Council’s River Access Network begins to take shape in coming months.

“People will now be able to float straight into West End and dock their water craft for up to two hours while they enjoy Brisbane’s New World City lifestyle.

“Anglers won’t miss out either, with Council allowing fishing to take place on the city’s new river hubs as part of a trial.”

Cr Schrinner said the West End River Hub formed part of an $8 million Council investment, to improve access to the river and create more to see and do at the city’s key waterfront entertainment precincts.

“West End is already renowned for its unique cultural and entertainment offerings, and its popularity will continue to grow with the State Government’s own data revealing that close to 17,000 people are expected to move in over the next 27 years,” he said.

“In coming months, the city will become home to another two river hubs in New Farm and Dutton Park as the River Access Network continues to grow, opening up the Brisbane River and Moreton Bay to world-class tourism opportunities.

“Plans are also progressing for a new riverwalk and river hub at the City Botanic Gardens, that will connect one of the last missing inner-city cycling routes.”

For more information on Council’s River Access Network, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on 3403 8888